Mars to Buddha Buddha: 10 years Out with Sara

Back in 2003, the scene was all about seeing and being seen then. Practically every bar and restaurant was new, and 20- and 30-somethings were invigorated by this new energy in downtown Harrisburg, a place that used to "roll up the carpet at 5 p.m."

The continual evolution of our downtown is noteworthy -- and particularly topical as I mark 10 years just as Harrisburg appears to be experiencing another rebirth. This new version is decidedly less flashy (one club owner told me it's a bit boring) and more mature.

Let's compare:

Buddha Buddha restaurant is at 400 N. Second St. in Harrisburg.
11/20/2012
DAN GLEITER, The Patriot-News

Mars to Buddha Buddha

As the northmost bookend to my 2003 bar crawls, Mars Lounge was known for its dark red decor, lengthy martini menus, and another "mover and shaker" hot spot. For a time, it was one of a handful of locations that offered a hookah menu.

Much like its companion location, Noma, Mars went through myriad changes, first becoming South Street Station, a simple "corner bar," then Smalls, a miniature rock club. Mars even returned for a short time, but was eventually replaced by Egypt, which shares the darkest ending of any on this list, closed after a shooting last year.

Buddha Buddha opened a few months later, with new management. It has already has its ups and downs, being forced to close to serve time for the incident at Egypt since it was under the same liquor license. At first, they served some sushi, which was unfortunately average for the price to focus on cocktails, which they've consistently done well.

Recently, windows were revealed to brighten, and a small outdoor patio space was added so it's not eliminated from summer bar travel. The latest cocktail menu focuses on seasonal favorite like mojitos and sangria by the pitcher.